PATERSON — A former Morris County Sheriff’s officer who was accused of starting two fires while serving as a Parsippany volunteer firefighter, had the arson charges dismissed Monday. Appearing before Judge Adam Jacobs in Passaic County Superior Court, Jason Campbell, 36, of Parsippany, pleaded guilty to one count of child neglect in the fourth degree, relating…
Nicolas Limanov pulls victim from burning vehicle
PARSIPPANY — A 22-year old man fell asleep behind the wheel of his parked car in the Powder Mill Plaza West Shopping Center was pulled to safety by Nicolas Limanov, an employee of Kafe Mozart, when his vehicle caught fire.
At 5:28 p.m. Monday, April 18, Parsippany police received a 9-1-1 call reporting a man sleeping inside a car that had its engine revving and was on fire in a parking lot.
The male was identified as Joseph D. Gerhard.
When Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman D. Ross arrived at 2900 Route 10 West, they found a witness had already assisted Gerhard out of the 2003 Saab.
Gerhard was taken to Saint Clare’s Hospital by Par-Troy Emergency Medical Services for treatment of possible smoke inhalation, police said.
Par-Troy Emergency Medical Services, Mount Tabor Fire Department, and Denville and Morris Plains police all responded to the scene.
Limanov said “I seen smoke from a distance and I helped another bystander pull out Mr. Gerhard. Skills that I have learned through Parsippany’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) gave me natural instinct to help the victim.”
Nicolas Limanov is being honored by Lakeland Hills YMCA on May 11 for “Citizen of the Year,” for volunteerism in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Par-Troy Little League East Opening Day Celebration
PARSIPPANY — Par-Troy Little League East held their opening day celebration for the 2016 season.
![A paver in memory of Ashley Cistaro will be placed in front of the concession stand](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/IMG_8029-300x200.jpg?resize=696%2C464&ssl=1)
A moment of silence was part of the ceremony in memory of Ashley Cistaro. Ashley, a 9-year-old girl, and part of the PTE family passed away in April. She always had a smile on her face and her favorite colors were pink and purple. A paver will be placed in front of the concession stand in her honor. Our prayers go out to the Cistaro family. A paver stone will be placed in front of the concession stand in her memory.
![A jersey honoring Noah Lorencovitz](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/IMG_8058-300x200.jpg?resize=696%2C464&ssl=1)
Noah Lorencovitz who has been a PTE player since starting T-ball is 2008 is progressing in his recovery. A jersey was placed above home base in his honor.
Noah has been at Children’s Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick. In his first week, he has made positive progress. The focus remains one day at a time and we are grateful that he continues to progress in the right direction.
His recovery is expected to take a long time, but what is frustrating is no one can tell exactly how long and how much of his abilities will come back.
Stimulation and familiarity are important components for his recovery. The family encourages friends and family members to continue recording voice messages and sending them to message4noah@gmail.com. (Multiple messages from the same person is ok).
Every opening day they honor a second year major’s baseball and softball player with the Michael Weist award. Michael was a player who gave his all, had great sportsmanship and teamwork. This is exactly what PTE and Little League is about. The managers from major’s baseball and softball from the previous season choose the award recipients. This year on the softball side the recipient is Chloe Budd. On the baseball side there was a tie. The recipients for baseball are Cal Braga and Eric Maciag.
Last year was another special year for PTE All Star Teams. The Little League Softball 11/12-year-old all-star team had a fantastic post season by winning the district title, coming from behind to win the sectional title and playing their hearts out in the state finals falling just short of a state title.
The Senior Softball team of girls from ages 13-16 won the district title, sectional title, and redeemed themselves from the previous year by winning the state title. They played in the regional tournament in Worcester Mass and were in the final 4 of that tournament falling just short of a trip to the Senior League World Series. Congratulations to both teams.
The 2016 Executive Board of Par-Troy Little League are:
- Paul Furfaro – VP Baseball
- Patsy Feola– VP Softball
- Dan Preston– League Information Officer
- Chris Mazzarella – VP Player Development
- Ed Weiss – Treasurer
- Tiffany Hiltz- Board Secretary
- Mike Plescia- Player Agent
- Safety Officer- Bob Pisillo
Par-Troy Little League East was initially chartered with Little League International in 1962. At that time, there were three chartered Little Leagues in Parsippany; Par-Troy West, Par-Troy North and Par-Troy East. The East and West Little Leagues both played their games at the current Par-Troy East complex. The North Little League played it’s games on, what is now, St. Ann Church on Smith Road.
Joseph Wentworth named Mayo Performing Arts Student of the Month
PARSIPPANY — Joseph Wentworth is making his talent known, and he’s only an eighth grade student at Brooklawn Middle School.
Wentworth has been named with eleven others as the Mayo Performing Arts Center’s Music Students of the Month for April.
Wentworth was nominated by his teacher, Joseph Stella, who said: “Joseph is a great musician and wonderful band student. He is not only a talented trombonist in the Brooklawn Middle School 8th grade concert band and jazz band, but is a talented percussionist as well. This year he will be playing the drum set part for the BMS musical production of grease. outside of school, he was recently accepted by audition as the first chair trombonist for the North Jersey Junior Region Intermediate Band and Junior Region Orchestra. He has also been active in music during the summer months for several years attending the Mount Tabor summer music camp in Parsippany.”
The group of honorees was recognized onstage at the Performing Arts Center on April 7.
Daiichi Sankyo moving out of Parsippany
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PARSIPPANY — Sankyo, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Daiichi Sankyo Company, Ltd., announced that it will establish a new U.S. headquarters, co-locating its commercial and development divisions in Basking Ridge. The move is part of an ongoing effort to realize efficiencies and continue collaboration between the business segments, enabling innovation in its existing and emerging therapeutic areas such as cardiology, oncology, pain and other areas where there are unmet medical needs. Daiichi Sankyo is currently located at Two Hilton Court in the Mack-Cali Business Campus.
“Uniting our New Jersey-based personnel into a single location not only makes us more efficient, but it will also further strengthen collaboration among teams working across the entire life cycle of our medicines,” said Glenn Gormley, MD, PhD, Chairman of the Board and President, Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. “We have enjoyed being a part of the Parsippany and Edison communities and we look forward to what the future holds in our new headquarters,” he added.
Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. is comprised of U.S.-based development functions, currently located in Edison, as well as all U.S. commercial departments, currently located in Parsippany. The new office will be located at 211 Mt. Airy Road, Basking Ridge.
The company expects to begin moving employees to the new location in 2017.
About Daiichi Sankyo
Daiichi Sankyo Group is dedicated to the creation and supply of innovative pharmaceutical products to address diversified, unmet medical needs of patients in both mature and emerging markets. With over 100 years of scientific expertise and a presence in more than 20 countries, Daiichi Sankyo and its 16,000 employees around the world draw upon a rich legacy of innovation and a robust pipeline of promising new medicines to help people. In addition to its strong portfolio of medicines for hypertension, dyslipidemia, bacterial infections, and thrombotic disorders, the Group’s research and development is focused on bringing forth novel therapies in cardiovascular-metabolic diseases, pain management, and oncology, including biologics.
For more information, click here. Daiichi Sankyo, Inc., headquartered in Parsippany is a member of the Daiichi Sankyo Group. For more information on Daiichi Sankyo, Inc., please click here.
Lead levels found above threshold in some Parsippany Schools
PARSIPPANY — Lead levels above the established safety threshold of 15 parts per billion were discovered at locations in Central Middle School and both Parsippany and Parsippany Hills high schools, but were not connected to fountains or other sources of water to be consumed, according to a detailed report released Monday by district officials.
Tests on water sources at Brooklawn Middle School were all below the safety threshold. The district is awaiting reports on the other schools in the district. Those reports are expected within two to three weeks.
“As you may know, as a result of the issue of lead in the schools drinking water in Newark, New Jersey, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District made the decision to have the water tested in all of our 14 schools. As part of the testing procedures, all drinking fountains, food preparation, and Home Economics classrooms were tested,” in a prepared statement released by the Office of the Superintendent.
The district schools are connected to the municipal water supply.
While the testing of all schools is not complete at this time, today we received results for five of our schools. The results are as follows:
Eastlake Elementary School:
The Eastlake Elementary School showed results above the threshold of 15.0 ppb in the following areas: Hall to gym wc: 22 ppb.
Classroom #5 wc: 16 ppb
Classroom #14 wc: 270 ppb
Classroom # 8 wc: 24 ppb
Classroom #16 wc: 28 ppb Action Plan – As a result, these drinking fountains will be turned off today and we will provide bottled water to the students in these classrooms. The Board of Education will be consulting with the testing company and they met with the Parsippany Department of Health to begin developing a long-term, permanent solution to insure our students have proper drinking water. All other samples in the school were below the threshold.
Parsippany High School
Parsippany High School showed results above the threshold of 15.0 ppb in the following area: Boiler room VF by tank: 200 ppb Action Plan – This valve is not tied to our drinking water. Rather, this is a utility valve and only the custodian and maintenance personnel have access to the value and reason to use it. All other samples were below the threshold.
Central Middle School
Central Middle School showed results above the threshold of 15.0 ppb in the following area: Water pump room UF: 66 ppb Action Plan – This utility faucet is not tied to the drinking water. Rather, this is a utility faucet and only our custodian and maintenance personnel have access to the faucet and reason to use it.
All other samples in the school were below the threshold.
Parsippany Hills High School
Parsippany Hills High School showed results above the threshold of 15.0 ppb in the following area: Boiler room Utility Valve by tank – 100 ppb. Action Plan – This utility valve is not tied to our drinking water. Rather, this is a utility valve and only our custodian and maintenance personnel have access to the valve and reason to use it. All other samples in the school were below the threshold.
Brooklawn Middle School
All samples in the school were below the threshold.
“Please understand that the information we have received is preliminary and not the complete report. The steps taken at this point are precautionary. As we receive additional notifications for the remaining schools and complete testing results for all our schools we will post the information on the District website by clicking here. The Township website has the most recent State mandated water quality testing program,” the press release concluded.
Click here to review complete report.
CCM Student Newspaper Takes Three First Place Awards
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RANDOLPH — “The Youngtown Edition,” the student newspaper at County College of Morris (CCM), celebrated another year of award-winning journalism at the New Jersey Collegiate Press Association (NJCPA) luncheon on Saturday, April 9.
The publication once again garnered several top-level honors from the NJCPA, this year winning first place awards in Arts and Entertainment/Critical Writing, Layout and Design, and Overall Website in the 2015-16 College Newspaper Contest. The competition includes two-year colleges throughout the state. The newspaper won seven awards in last year’s competition, and six the year before that.
“What I love about ‘The Youngtown Edition’ is, despite the fact that the staff turns over frequently as students graduate and the focus and content shifts with each new regime, the strength and quality of the work doesn’t change,” said Russ Crespolini, adjunct professor at CCM and the paper’s faculty advisor. “Last year we won first place for news writing and sports writing. This year we took top honors for features writing and layout and design.”
Editor-in-Chief Derek Allen, of Florham Park, said he was incredibly proud of the work the team turned in this year and was thrilled to see them recognized.
“As a paper, we have autonomy to decide what we cover and what we publish. To see our choices rewarded like this is a great honor,” said Allen after accepting the second place award for general excellence.
At the luncheon, Allen also accepted the second place award in opinion writing on behalf of Opinion Editor Sandra Riano, of Dover.
“Coming into this year we didn’t have a strong opinion section. Sandra definitely changed that,” Allen said. “She took on broad topics like politics, racism and undocumented citizens and managed to make them relatable to the campus community. Her stories always had people talking.”
Emily Betz, of Long Valley, was awarded first place in Arts and Entertainment/Critical Writing for her treatise on an honor killing documentary.
“Emily is a student in one of my speech classes and is incredibly passionate and expressive when she is trying to get her point across,” Crespolini said. “It is rare to see that kind of energy translate to the written word, but Emily certainly pulled it off. And the judges obviously saw that.”
The design duo of Drew Notarnicola, of Hackettstown, and Frank Eaton, of Rockaway, picked up top prize for Layout and Design.
“Those guys literally are the best,” Allen said. “We wouldn’t have been able to get the paper out at all without them. They single-handedly take the photos, the ads and copy and lay it out. They deserve all the awards we could possibly give them, honestly.”
Managing Editor Beth Peter, of Long Valley, who will ascend to editor-in-chief in the fall after Allen graduates, picked up a pair of prizes for her web work. The first place award attributed to Peter was for overall website and she also earned a second place prize for the social media work she does for the “Youngtown” in the category of special projects.
“I’m proud to have won,” Peter said. “I put a lot of work into the projects I earned awards for and seeing that effort recognized feels really good.”
Peter already has her sights set on repeating the success of this year and adding to it next year.
“We have room for growth and I am hoping we get more talented people on campus to come help us keep the streak alive,” Peter said.
For his part, Crespolini agreed.
“The paper is solely a student production. We are always looking for designers, photographers, writers and editors. If you want to get involved, we will find a place for you. It looks great on your resume, you learn a lot and we have a good time,” Crespolini said. “Anyone interested at all should drop us a line at youngtownedition@gmail.com.”
Fishing, Rockets & BBs for Boys in Grades K-4
PARSIPPANY — All boys in grades K-4 are invited to these events to have fun and learn about local Cub Scout packs.
HOOKED ON SCOUTING – Play fishing-themed games, learn where you can fish at our camps and about the pack nearest you. Thursday, April 21, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m, at St. Christopher’s, 1050 Littleton Road. Register by clicking here.
CAMP WHEELER OPEN HOUSE – shoot BBs, tour our camp and get discount tickets for summer camp. Sunday, April 24th, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 750 Waterloo Road in Stanhope. No registration needed.
BUILD AND LAUNCH A ROCKET – build your model rocket on Friday, May 20, anytime between 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at One Saddle Road, Cedar Knolls. Launch your rocket on May 21, or May 28, or June 11 in Watchung, Bridgewater or Great Meadows. Register by clicking here.
For more information, contact Senior District Executive Al Thomas, Patriots’ Path Council, BSA, al.thomas@scouting.org, (973) 765-9322 ext, 229.
Woman’s Club Supports Parsippany Libraries’ Staff
![Library-pix-3](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/Library-pix-3.jpg?resize=696%2C464&ssl=1)
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) celebrated National Library Workers’ Day, on Tuesday, April 12, by supplying snacks to staff members at all three Parsippany Library branches. National Library Workers’ Day was established in 2003 to recognize the hard work, dedication, and expertise of library support staff and librarians.
This is the second year the Woman’s Club has supported National Library Workers’ Day. WCPTH has a special relationship with the Parsippany Library, as one of its first donors in the 1960’s when the town library was established. Nationally, Women’s Clubs are credited with establishing three quarters of the nation’s libraries.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.
For additional information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com or visit their on the web www.parsippanywomansclub.org.
![Parsippany Main Branch - Corinne Markey, Parsippany Library Makerspace Coordinator; Jennifer Carlin, Children's Librarian; Kathy Roussel and Janet Reilly, members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/Library-Pix-1.jpg?resize=696%2C692&ssl=1)
Hector A. Cafferata, 86, Dies
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PARSIPPANY — Hector A. Cafferata, 86, of Venice, FL, formerly of Lake Hiawatha passed away April 12, 2016 with his loving family by his side. Mr. Cafferata served his country during the Korean War as a PFC USMC, 2nd Batallion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Fox Company. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor for Conspicuous Gallantry during the Chosin Reservoir Campaign in Korea in 1950, as well as its South Korean equivalent, the First Class Taegeuk Cordon of the Order of Military Merit.
Mr. Cafferata also received the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. Because of his meritorious service, the Hector A. Cafferata Elementary School in Fort Myers, Florida was named in his honor.
It was his joy to visit the school from time to time, something he missed doing in his later years. Preceded in death by his parents Hector, Sr., and Helen, his brother Godfrey (John) R. Cafferata, and a grandson, Mr. Cafferata is survived by Doris, his loving wife of over 50 years, children Lynn D. Cafferata Coovert of Charlotte, North Carolina, Dale Cafferata of Pinellas Park, Florida, Heather A. Cafferata of Budd Lake, and Deborah Cafferata-ReFalo of Charlotte, North Carolina. He is also survived by his precious grandchildren Jessica, Peter, Nicole, David, Jennifer, and Alexandria, cherished great grandchildren Emily, Remy, and Landon, dear brother William N. Cafferata of Vancouver, B.C., and numerous nieces and nephews.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 16. He will be laid to rest with military honors in Quantico National Cemetery in Virginia at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 22. A reception will follow services.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Mr. Cafferata’s memory to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation at www.mcsf.org.
Friends may visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com to send a condolence or to share a memory.
Girl Scout Troop 6229 assisting a dog adoption event
PARSIPPANY — Girl Scout Troop 6229 will be assisting in “Pet Valu Pet Appreciation Month” from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 23.
Pet Valu is located at 3053 Route 46, Morris Hills Shopping Center.
Foster parents from “The Last Resort Rescue” will be at the store during those hours with dogs of various ages that are in need of adoption. Their hope is that some of these animals will find their “forever homes.”
Please come and support this important event. A percentage of all proceeds made at the store, that day, will be donated directly to The Last Resort rescue.
The girls have been working hard on their Bronze Award, one of the highest awards a Girl Scout Junior can achieve. Their project has centered on trying to help animals by raising awareness about the mistreatment of animals, what people can do to help make a positive difference and to help homeless pets find loving homes. The girls will be presenting to their classmates and have created pet supply donation bins for the purpose of collecting much needed supplies for St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center. Please visit Pet Valu up through Sunday, May 15 and consider donating something to the bin that is located at the store (a wish-list of needed supplies is attached to bin). The girls will be visiting St. Hubert’s on Saturday, May 21 and delivering all supplies collected.
Month of April is an important month at Pet Valu as it represents “Pet Awareness Month” (PAWS). During PAWS Pet Valu donates a percentage of all the proceeds they make to rescues in need.
The girls are very happy to be working with Pet Valu, The Last Resort Rescue and St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in this joint endeavor.
Freeholders presents Proclamation to Kiwanis Club for “National Child Abuse Month”
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PARSIPPANY — Freeholder Thomas Mastrangelo presented a proclamation from the Morris County Freeholders to Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany for their successful work on the “National Child Abuse Prevention Program” campaign.
Committee Chair Karen DeChristopher and members Joyce Garrow, Barbara Lysenko and Carol Tiesi were on hand to accept the proclamation with Kiwanis President Connie Keller.
National Child Abuse Prevention Month is a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, and to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families. During the month of April and throughout the year, communities are encouraged to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness strategies and activities and promote prevention across the country. In recognition of the 40th anniversary of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, we have designed a historical timeline of significant moments in child abuse prevention in the United States.
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
![Karen DeChristopher and Frank Cahill at Kafe Mozart](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/IMG_7502-300x200.jpg?resize=696%2C464&ssl=1)
Rauchberg Hosts Seminar about new Alternatives for Decayed and Missing Teeth
PARSIPPANY – If you have questions, restorative and general dentist Dr. Alan Rauchberg has answers. Dr. Rauchberg is hosting a free luncheon for people interested in learning how today’s dental implant technology can renew their smile. He’s also offering something life-changing to three lucky attendees: a free dental implant valued at $2,500 each. The event will be held on Friday, April 29 at 12:00 Noon, at the Holiday Inn, 707 Route 46 East in Parsippany and includes a free buffet lunch. Each attendee also receives a complimentary exam and X-rays (a $500 value). Registration is required, to reserve a seat call (973) 321-4173.
Dr. Rauchberg will discuss the advancements that have made dental implants the new standard of care for a beautiful, natural-looking smile. Topics will cover initial consultations and treatment options through post-op care, insurance coverage, and implant affordability.
Rauchberg Dental Group is one of the only multi-specialty practices in northern New Jersey. The practice offers state-of-the-art technology, modern comforts and amenities, and a focus on education and dental innovation. They participate in most major dental insurance plans and offer a dental savings plan for those without insurance.
Northvail’s Fifth Grade Presents Oliver Twist
PARSIPPANY — Oliver Twist is a musical based on the novel written by Charles Dickens in 1837 and was recently performed by Northvail’s fifth grade students. The story is about the young orphan Oliver Twist, who suffers many childhood misfortunes. The central theme is that of good versus evil, with evil continually trying to defeat good, but good winning out in the end.
Auditions started right after the winter break and the outstanding production was the culmination of two months of dedication and hard work. The chorus performed ten musical numbers including, Where is Love? – It’s A Grand Life– Just Leave Everything to Me and others. The cast of diverse characters consisted of many shining stars and the stage crew made the production run smoothly.
Thank you Mrs. DeGeorge, Mrs. Serrao, and Mr. Martens for this wonderful production! Our children are lucky to have such a dedicated group that inspires students and helps each fulfill their dream of performing on stage. We know that the production was a huge commitment and extra time away from their families.
Ex-Parsippany deputy police chief looks to dismiss DWI charge
MADISON — The former deputy chief of the Parsippany Police Department who was accused of driving while intoxicated in January is seeking to have the charges filed against him dismissed. Attorney Terry Web told Judge Gary F. Troxell in court Tuesday she filed a motion to dismiss charges stemming from an incident where William Makowitz was…
Tiny Totz provides high quality child care
PARSIPPANY — Tiny Totz is a place where care for your child from bassinet to backyard. Since 1987, the staff has been providing high quality care at an affordable price.
Upon visiting the center, you will discover a very cozy, home-like environment. In a time of flashy franchises, Tiny Totz strives to provide a much more intimate, personal care program. One in which every person in the center will know you and your child. They consider good communication with our parents to best meet the needs of each child.
Tiny Totz is teacher owned and operated. They are a NJ licensed center. Their dedicated staff members are all background-check fingerprinted, as well as, infant & child CPR and first aid trained annually by the Red Cross.
“Caring for children has always been a passion of mine”, says Danielle Welsch, owner of Tiny Totz childcare center in Lake Parsippany. “During my high school years, I worked after school at a daycare center, and during my senior year I received an Early Childhood certification from Morris County Vo-Tech. I knew then that I wanted to pursue a future career working with children. After high school, I graduated Cum Laude from Seton Hall University with a B.S. in Elementary Education. I taught for a couple years before marrying and eventually raising my own four children. In 2013, I decided to go back to work and realized that I missed the daycare environment. When an opportunity arose to purchase this existing daycare in Lake Parsippany, I jumped at the chance. In August 2014, I became the official owner/director of Tiny Totz and embarked on many cosmetic and internal changes to the center,” she continued.
This center appealed to me because of its cozy, home-like atmosphere. It’s kind of like a home away from home. In a time of flashy franchises, we have a much more personal, family-owned feel. In fact my sister Gina, a former daycare worker and mom of three, is the assistant director.
Infants spend their days being rocked, sung to, read to, and played with. They are always served breakfast and prepare bottles for moms in a hurry. Movement such as crawling, cruising and then walking will be encouraged in the large infant play space. Learning is constantly taking place as babies search, explore and discover their world through play.
The toddlers are taught by the owner of the center, a certified teacher, Miss Danielle. They use a thematic base, comprehensive developmentally appropriate learning program. Each week there is a different theme, which is sent home ahead of time on a monthly basis. For each theme there are activities for Creative Art, Songs & Fingerplays, Language & Early Literacy, Number & Logical Thinking, Science & Nature, Sensory Discrimination & Physical Development. The curriculum addresses all current learning standards as recommended by NAEYC.
At Tiny Totz, they believe in an eclectic approach to learning. One in which the kids have structure, as well as free play. In structure, little ones begin to learn how to listen to a teacher, take turns and cooperate with others. Our structured time consists of circle time, story time, songs, as well as the development of fine motor skills and creativity through such things as blocks, large “legos”, playdough, and crafts. Their imagination is expanded through dress up, dolls and tool bench play. Large motor skills are developed through outdoor play. Kids will be outside everyday that is reasonable weather wise. In addition to snack and nap time, toddlers will have free play where they have the freedom to choose what appeals to them. Younger toddlers tend to parallel play, which then develops into older toddlers beginning to interact with friends. This is where turn taking and respect for others feelings begins to develop, as well as social interaction skills.
Tiny Totz is located at 215 Kingston Road. They can be reached by calling (973) 887-2299 or click here to view their website.
They are open Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
First Annual Ashley Cistaro Cheer Fest 2016 to be held
PARSIPPANY — The PAL Redhawk Cheer Program is hosting its First Annual Ashley Cistaro Cheer Fest! All proceeds will go to Autism Speaks in Ashley’s Name.
Children who will be entering Kindergarten this Fall 2016 and older are eligible to participate. The event is taking place on Sunday, May 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Parsippany Police Athletic Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road.
Cost: is $20.00 per child. The attire is T-shirt, shorts, sneakers, hair tied back
Each child will get a Cheer Fest T-Shirt, will participate in arts and crafts, learn basic cheers, an age appropriate stunt, and will perform the last fifteen minutes for the parents all taught by our competition squad and High school coaches.
Deadline to Sign up:is May 1, 2016
If you have any questions or concerns please contact Christine Hurta cheermom24@live.com or call (973)-476-3465.
To register please visit www.parsippanypal.org and click on registration.
Ashley Cistaro was a lively nine year old who was taken too early at the age of nine years old. She was a third grade student at Troy Hills Elementary School. She loved dance, softball, friends, her dog Huey and her love for cheerleading. The donation link will allow you to donate to her scholarship fund. Please take the time to read the info and donate to our worthy cause.
Indus American Bank opens new location in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — Indus American Bank recently held a ribbon cutting grand opening celebration at it’s new location, 1452 Route 46 West, Troy Hills Village Shopping Center.
The new full service branch offers consumer and business banking services including safe deposit boxes.
Indus American Bank, is a wholly owned subsidiary of IA Bancorp, Inc, founded in 2004 by local businessmen and community leaders to provide superior financial products and services to its local community.
Our Mission Statement is a testament of our objectives and goals. Indus American Bank is strong and secure and is one of the first commercial bank focused on serving the South Asian community.
Headquartered in Edison, Indus American Bank operates a full service branch in Parsippany, Edison, Jersey City, Plainsboro and Hicksville (NY) and plans to expand to other cities in New Jersey and New York. Indus American Bank has been founded specifically to serve the needs of the South Asians, one of the fastest growing segments of the Asian ethnic group over the coming decade. Presently, Indus American Bank serves both the business as well as the retail customer.
Indus American Bank specializes in core business banking products for small to medium-sized companies with emphasis on real estate based lending as well as all the other products that are offered by main-stream banks.
Indus American Bank’s focus is to establish and maintain long term relationships with its customers by creating mutually beneficial relationships built on trust and integrity.
The Banks’ employees believe personal attention is of utmost importance when delivering sound, friendly and professional financial services that exceed customers’ expectations. Indus American Bank employees are empowered to think outside the box to deliver comprehensive financial services.
You can reach Indus American Bank by calling (973) 402-2467. The branch is open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Indus American Bank is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Kafe Mozart to host “Dine to Donate” for National Child Abuse Prevention
PARSIPPANY —Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is hosting a Dine and Donate fundraiser to support National Child Abuse Prevention on Monday, April 18 at Kafe Mozart, 2900 Route 10, Parsippany.
Ten percent of all purchases from dine-in, take-out, delivery and gift cards will be donated to National Child Abuse Prevention.
The fundraiser is one many planned at Kafe Mozart for non-profit groups. “Being involved with fundraising for many non-profit organizations over the years, I am happy to make it easy for groups to raise the needed funds for their organization, said Co-owner Frank Cahill.”
Kafe Mozart opened in February serving savory crepes, panini’s, home made soups, entrees, sandwiches, breakfast and sweet crepes and has an extensive espresso bar serving cappuccino’s, latte’s, coffees and more.
The Dine and Donate fundraiser takes place all day Monday, April 18 at 2900 Route 10, Parsippany.
Diners must use event fliers to donate to the fundraiser. The fliers are available for download at kafemozart.com.
“Communities have a great influence in families’ lives. Just as plants are more likely to thrive in a garden with good soil and plenty of sunlight and water, families are more likely to thrive in nurturing communities. A safe place for children to play is one feature of a nurturing community. Other features include the availability of food, shelter, and medical care for families, as well as a culture that encourages neighbors to get to know and
help one another. Nurturing communities can help build strong families, said Karen DeChristopher, Young Children Priority One Chairman of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
New Family Justice Center for Domestic Violence and Sex Assault Victims Opens
![fredknapp parsippany newspaper](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/fredknapp.jpg?resize=696%2C464&ssl=1)
MORRIS COUNTY — Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS), its partner agencies and the Morris County Board of Freeholders and Prosecutor today formally opened the comprehensive center for domestic violence and sexual assault victims in Morris County: the Morris Family Justice Center (MFJC). The opening coincides with JBWS’ 40th anniversary.
The Morris Family Justice Center will provide services that a survivor of interpersonal violence and sexual assault needs in ONE place—counseling, protection, legal and immigration assistance, children’s services, and more.
Located on the Fourth Floor of the County Administration and Records Building in Morristown, the Center’s services will be offered by representatives from the partner agencies in a safe, supportive environment.
Volunteers play with the children in the bright, fun play area while their mothers meet with staff in the Center. Also, specialized child advocates will provide individual and group support for children from abusive homes.
JBWS’ partners in this exciting endeavor include the Morris County Freeholders, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Superior Court, Legal Services of Northwest Jersey, Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs, Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morris County Bar Foundation, Morris Cares, Manavi, and the Morristown Police Department.
Within the Morris Family Justice Center, a Morristown Police officer Jermaine Marbley assists victims with their criminal investigations and filing for restraining orders.
“In our 40 years, JBWS has evolved into a full service domestic violence agency and opening a Family Justice Center is the next logical step in improving services,” said JBWS Executive Director Patricia Sly.
“It gives me a tremendous sense of pride to think of how many Morris County families will be helped by this Center, which will stand as a beacon of hope for the victims of domestic violence for years to come,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo, who helped spearhead freeholder board approval of the use of county government space for this new center.
Before a group of 100 Morris Family Justice Center stakeholders, Morris County Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo announces the use of the county government space for the new Center.
“Unfortunately, victims of domestic violence have frequently suffered their abuse in silence with the fear of being alone or that no one would believe their complaints,’’ said Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp. “The Morris Family Justice Center will offer these survivors and their children a pathway out of the darkness. It will undoubtedly aid in the prosecution of offenders to hopefully end the cycle of abuse.
Fredric Knapp, Morris County Prosecutor supports the family justice center model at a recent planning session.
Allocation of space in the county government complex by the freeholders will make it easier for JBWS to obtain grants needed to operate the center, and allow them to use valuable funds for programs rather than allocating funds to rent or lease space.
There are some 2,500 domestic violence offenses recorded in Morris County annually, with only about 25 percent of incidents reported. The new center could encourage domestic crime victims to come forward and seek needed help before situations spiral out of control, leading to more serious assaults and even homicides, said Sly.
Too often, according to the national Family Justice Center Alliance, victims of interpersonal violence and sexual assault, and their children, are forced to navigate complex systems to receive critical services while gripped by fear and heartbreak.
![Emily Ryzuk, Lead Clinician for Morris CARES prepares to meet with survivors of sexual assault at her office in the new MFJC](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/domesticviolence2.jpg?resize=229%2C171&ssl=1)
Family Justice Centers bring agencies together to work with victims during the crisis and long after the crisis. Victims are no longer be burdened with traveling to different agencies and telling their stories repeatedly.
In the new Morris Family Justice Center, victims of domestic abuse feel welcomed by staff who are ready help them. Natasha DeJesus, Bilingual Client Service Specialist can provide information and support in Spanish.
“We are only capturing a portion of the domestic violence cases that occur in Morris County,’’ said Marcy McMann, chairwoman of the Morris County Domestic Violence Working Group. “This new center will encourage domestic crime victims to come forward and seek needed help before situations spiral out of control, leading to more serious assaults and even homicides.’’
![JBWS executive director Patricia Sly, Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp, chairwoman of the Morris County Domestic Violence Working Group Marcy McMann and Alliance for Hope International leader, Gael Strack participate in a strategic planning session prior to opening the new Morris Family Justice Center](https://i0.wp.com/parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2016/04/domesticviolence1.jpg?resize=326%2C217&ssl=1)
The initial startup of the project is being funded by a federal grant from the Office on Violence Against Women and The Provident Bank Foundation. The Morris County Freeholders in 2015 unanimously approved an agreement to provide space, at no cost, for the new center.
About the Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS)
Founded in 1976, JBWS celebrates 40 years of offering hope and safety to victims of domestic violence and their families. The services include a 24-hour hotline; counseling; safe house; transitional living; children’s services; life skills education; vocational counseling; batterers’ intervention; legal assistance; and professional training, education and youth prevention programs. For more information on JBWS, please visit: www.jbws.org or for confidential help call (973) 267-4763.